Proposition 8 would change the California State Constitution to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry.

In this emotion-laden issue, supporters and opponents of same-sex marriage are grappling with whether amending the constitution to strip rights from some Californians is wise policy.

What is the impact on families and society as a whole?- The Commonwealth Club of California

Donna Ryu

Donna Ryu is a clinical professor of law at Hastings College of Law.
She is also the co-chair of the board of directors of the national center for lesbian rights (NCLR). NCLR served as council for the same-sex couples for the marriage cases decided by the Supreme Court.

Therese M. Stewart

Therese M. Stewart is the Chief Deputy City Attorney for the City and County of San Francisco.
She has argued the case for same sex marriage rights before the California Supreme Court.

Paul W. Thorndal

Paul Thorndal is a partner at Wald Law Group in San Francisco.
The group practices family law with an emphasis on same-sex couples.